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Performing Arts

Choreographer

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Choreographers are creative professionals who design and direct dance routines and movement sequences for performances in theatres, television, film, music videos, and live events. Their role involves working with dancers and performers to develop new pieces, rehearse routines, and ensure that every movement fits the artistic vision of a production. Choreographers often collaborate closely with directors, producers, costume designers, and lighting technicians to create compelling performances. Many choreographers also teach and mentor aspiring dancers, whether in educational settings or private studios. The job can be highly rewarding for those passionate about dance and creativity, but it can also involve irregular hours, travel, and freelance work.

Choreographer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Choreographers in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and the type of employer.

Job Openings

There are around 2,000 professional choreographers working in the UK, with new positions often advertised by dance companies, theatres, and schools.

Employment Sectors

Choreographers are employed in sectors such as theatre, television, film, music videos, and education.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Ballet Choreographer

Creates dance routines specifically for ballet performances, working with ballet dancers and companies to develop new works or adapt classics.

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Musical Theatre Choreographer

Designs and teaches dance sequences for musical theatre productions, collaborating closely with directors and performers.

Dance Company Rehearsal Director

Oversees rehearsals for a professional dance company, teaching choreography and ensuring dancers perform routines accurately and artistically.

Build Dance Skills

Take Dance Classes

Attend regular dance lessons in a variety of styles such as ballet, jazz, contemporary, or street dance.

Enrolling in dance classes from a young age helps develop your movement skills, rhythm, and technique. Try different styles to discover your preferences and broaden your abilities. Local dance schools, community centres, and after-school clubs often offer a range of options.

Join Dance Groups

Participate in school or local dance groups, youth theatres, or amateur performances to gain teamwork and performance experience.

Being part of a group allows you to learn from others, perform in front of audiences, and start understanding how routines come together. This is also a good opportunity to start experimenting with choreographing small sections yourself.

Gain Choreography Experience

Create Your Own Routines

Start designing short dance routines for yourself, friends, or classmates.

Try choreographing for school shows, talent competitions, or community events. This practical experience will help you learn how to communicate your ideas and adapt to different dancers’ abilities.

Study Choreography

Learn about the principles of choreography and famous choreographers through books, videos, and online resources.

Understanding the theory behind choreography, such as spatial design, timing, and the relationship between music and movement, will strengthen your creative process. Watching professional routines and analysing what makes them effective is also valuable.

Pursue Professional Training

Take Advanced Dance Qualifications

Consider A-levels, BTECs, or diplomas in dance, followed by a university degree or conservatoire training specialising in dance or choreography.

Many choreographers complete formal training at colleges or universities, such as a BA in Dance or Choreography. These courses provide in-depth knowledge, practical opportunities, and connections within the performing arts industry.

Build a Portfolio

Create a showreel or portfolio showcasing your choreography work to share with potential employers or collaborators.

Document your routines and performances with video recordings and photographs. A strong portfolio will help you secure work, apply for grants, or audition for choreographer roles.

Launch Your Career

Network and Find Opportunities

Connect with dance companies, theatres, and production groups to find freelance or employed work as a choreographer.

Attend industry events, workshops, and auditions. Consider starting out as an assistant choreographer or working on small productions to build your reputation. Joining professional organisations, such as One Dance UK, can also provide support and opportunities.

Keep Learning and Innovating

Stay updated with new dance trends and continue developing your own style and skills.

The world of dance and choreography is always evolving. Take part in professional development, attend performances, and collaborate with other artists to keep your work fresh and inspiring.

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🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Choreographer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

No career progressions found for Choreographer

Sample Qualifications

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

University

You'll need a high level of dance training and experience. You could do a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate award to develop your skills.

Relevant subjects include:

  • professional dance
  • musical theatre
  • dance and choreography

These are offered by dance schools and universities.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
  • to pass an audition

More Information

Work

You could start out as a professional dancer and combine this with an assistant choreographer role.

With further training and experience you could work your way up to become a choreographer.

Volunteering

You may find it useful to get work experience with an established choreographer.

You could also develop your skills by volunteering to choreograph amateur dance club performances.

Direct Application

You may be able to apply for work if you're an experienced professional dancer or dance teacher.

More Information

Career tips

When you're starting out it's good to have a mentor, perhaps someone whose work you admire, to guide you and give you advice.

You can find professional choreographers in the UK Directory of Choreographers.

Observing as many different types of dance to increase your knowledge of dance styles is also useful.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join One Dance UK for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a choreographer from One Dance UK.

You can get more information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.

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